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Tulum
Located on a cliff right above the sea, many say the Tulum ruins have the most beautiful setting of any Mayan site. Known as Zamma (place of the rising sun) in ancient times, its many altars, temples and shrines were associated with dawn. (A 10 minute drive from ZAMAS) www.mayasites.com/tulum.html
Cobá
Still a largely unexcavated jungle ruin, Cobá offers an experience of the Mayan world still shrouded in mystery. Its pyramid of Nohoch Mul is the tallest pre-Hispanic structure in the Yucatan. More than 50 ancient clay roads, most still hidden in dense jungle, once led directly into this important center of Mayan culture. (A 45 minute drive from ZAMAS) www.mayasites.com/coba.html
Chichen Itzá
Named "mouth of the Itzá well" for its impressive Sacred Cenote, Chichen Itzá is the most completely restored and among the most important of Mayan archaeological sites. (A 2-1/2 hour drive from ZAMAS) gorp.away.com
EK Balam
Built around a grand central pyramid and two large palaces, EK Balam is believed to have been inhabited for nearly 1000 years, longer than any other Mayan site in the Yucatan. (A 2 hour drive from ZAMAS) playa.info |
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Fresh water pools located in the jungle or along the beach, cenotes are one of the unique treasures of the Maya Riviera. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling and exploring.
www.cenotesoftherivieramaya.com
www.nsscds.com
Here are just a few in the area, or ask the locals for their favorites:
Gran Cenote
Climb down into, and swim through, the water-filled caves. (A 10-minute drive west of ZAMAS) |
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Cenote Escondido
Jungle setting with clear water surrounded by large boulders. (A 10-minute drive south of ZAMAS)
Casa Cenote
A river cenote, with the sea on one side and mango groves on the other. Good snorkeling, a great introductory dive, and a dive shop. (A 10-minute drive north of ZAMAS) www.casacenote.com/diving
Dos Ojos
Spectacular caverns that are part of an extensive underground system of cenotes. Guided snorkeling tours, or diving for experienced divers. (A 20-minute drive north of ZAMAS) www.hiddenworlds.com.mx
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Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka'an is prime trekking ground for those who want to experience jungle wildlife living amidst pristine rain forest and Mayan ruins. Set aside in 1986, the Reserve was established to preserve vast tracts of coastal and marine habitat, coastal reefs, savannas, mangroves, and tropical forests. It is popular with birdwatchers, beachcombers, and fly fishermen. Jeep and boat tours are available. (A 10-minute drive south of ZAMAS to the Reserve entrance. A 2 1/2-hour drive along dirt roads through the Reserve to the fishing village of Punta Allen.)
www.cesiak.org
www.ecotravelmexico.com |
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Xcaret
The largest entertainment development on the coast. Great for the traditional Mayan and Mexican shows and dancing from many areas. (A 45-minute drive from ZAMAS) www.xcaret.com
Xel-Ha
The "world's largest aquarium", this natural lagoon is impressive and offers a full day of exploration. Activities include snorkeling, trail excursions, and swimming with dolphins. (A 15-minute drive north from ZAMAS ) www.xelha.com.mx
Yal Ku
The lagoon is nestled within the area of Akumal and is a smaller version of Xel-Ha; it's a nice afternoon excursion. (A 25-minute drive north from ZAMAS) |
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Rentals, lessons and tours are available at local dive shops. For kayaks and windsurfers, and sail boat rentals and charters
www.casacenote.com/diving
akumal.com/fishing.html
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South
A spectacular 45 km stretch of undeveloped beach, running from ZAMAS through the Sian Ka'an Reserve. Perfect for trekking, sun-bathing, body surfing and romantic getaways.
North
A 5 mi hike through protected beach coves and over coastal bluffs ends at the Tulum Ruins.
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Mixik
Colorful Mexican folk art gifts; located at ZAMAS and in town.
La Posada del Sol Tienda
Artisan shop with local jewelry; down the block from ZAMAS.
SuWuus
Trendy women's clothing and accessories from Mexico and Europe; located in town.
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For transport from the airport, we recommend STP in Cancun: stp@cancun.com.mx
For getting around Tulum, taxis are plentiful and may be called by radio from ZAMAS.
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